The Red Pheasant Cree Nation (RPCN) declared a state of emergency because seven people overdosed on Friday..According to the RPCN, none of the suspected overdoses resulted in any deaths..The RPCN statement said it “is concerned about the increased violence and how it affects the safety of their people. Many residents are living in fear and are reluctant to cooperate with the RCMP because they fear retaliation.”.“We must do something and this is our first step,” said RPCN Chief Lux Benson. .“Our leadership is taking urgent measures to address the drug problem in the community.”.Benson stated the RPCN has given a warning. .They will evict people from houses where they suspect drug activity. If necessary, turn off utilities and board up the doors and windows..Benson explained the drug problem in the community is a big issue. The RPCN needs help from outside groups, such as the RCMP, to work together to solve the crisis..The RCMP “have the mandate and the expertise to enforce the law and disrupt the supply of illicit substances,” said Benson..“We urge the RCMP to step up and help us address this challenge by increasing their presence, resources and collaboration.”.In the statement, RPCN explained most overdoses are often linked to problems with addiction and mental health..They asked the federal health minister and the provincial government to meet and discuss how to provide RPCN healthcare for the addictions crisis..“We call on all our leaders to act now and save lives,” said the RPCN statement..“Red Pheasant believes these actions are necessary to protect the Treaty and the inherent rights of First Nations people and to ensure their health, well-being and dignity.”.The RPCN is located 27 kilometres south of North Battleford.
The Red Pheasant Cree Nation (RPCN) declared a state of emergency because seven people overdosed on Friday..According to the RPCN, none of the suspected overdoses resulted in any deaths..The RPCN statement said it “is concerned about the increased violence and how it affects the safety of their people. Many residents are living in fear and are reluctant to cooperate with the RCMP because they fear retaliation.”.“We must do something and this is our first step,” said RPCN Chief Lux Benson. .“Our leadership is taking urgent measures to address the drug problem in the community.”.Benson stated the RPCN has given a warning. .They will evict people from houses where they suspect drug activity. If necessary, turn off utilities and board up the doors and windows..Benson explained the drug problem in the community is a big issue. The RPCN needs help from outside groups, such as the RCMP, to work together to solve the crisis..The RCMP “have the mandate and the expertise to enforce the law and disrupt the supply of illicit substances,” said Benson..“We urge the RCMP to step up and help us address this challenge by increasing their presence, resources and collaboration.”.In the statement, RPCN explained most overdoses are often linked to problems with addiction and mental health..They asked the federal health minister and the provincial government to meet and discuss how to provide RPCN healthcare for the addictions crisis..“We call on all our leaders to act now and save lives,” said the RPCN statement..“Red Pheasant believes these actions are necessary to protect the Treaty and the inherent rights of First Nations people and to ensure their health, well-being and dignity.”.The RPCN is located 27 kilometres south of North Battleford.
